Celebrate the Fourth of July in Charlottesville and Albemarle County

Looking for the perfect place to spend Independence Day? Head to Charlottesville, Virginia for the perfect mix of small-town charm and big-time celebration! From live music and family-friendly fun to unforgettable fireworks, there's no better place to soak up the spirit of the fourth.


This blog is updated as of 5.15.2025. Please check back for more updates as we get closer to the holiday.


Best Places to View Fireworks in Charlottesville

The C'ville Spectacular Fireworks show is back! The breathtaking display will light up the night sky for 18 minutes and be visible from vantage points across Central Virginia — so grab your spot early and get ready to celebrate America in style. The show starts at 9PM sharp and we've got the scoop on the best places to go. Take a look at our collection of events, including free public viewing spots, fun business-hosted events, and ticketed festivities.

Tickets Required

Carter Mountain Orchard

Groove to live music from 6–9 PM with boot scootin' hits from Big Gavel. There will be local food trucks from 5:30–9PM as well as Carter Mountain food favorites and adult beverages.

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Free Entry

The Graduate Hotel

The 9th floor rooftop will be open from 5PM to midnight with themed drinks, food specials, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a fantastic view of the Carter Mountain fireworks! Entry is first come, first serve.

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$15 Entry (Kids 12 and Under are Free)

Rooftop Charlottesville | The Doyle Hotel

Expect fun, family-friendly vibes, cookout classics with a rooftop twist, and unbeatable views! Doors open at 3PM and there will be no reservations for outdoor seatings/tables.

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More Family-Friendly Festivities (with Fireworks!)

1. Boar's Head Independence Day Celebration | July 4th

The party kicks off at 5PM (parking lot opens at 3PM), with live music from Koda & Marie of Chamomile and Whiskey & Friends at 6PM, and fireworks at 9PM! There will be food and drinks available for purchase for all ages, including Boar's Head Food Truck, Farmacy, Vision BBQ and It's Poppin' Time. Lawn game include cornhole, ladder golf, and table games! All tickets for this event must be purchased in advance. Availability is limited. No tickets will be sold day-of at the door.

2. Scottsville Independence Day Parade and Celebration | July 4th

With the parade in the morning, music, food, and games in the afternoon, and fireworks over the James River in the evening, there will be a strong sense of small-town warmth and “slice of Americana” throughout the entire event. Everyone is guaranteed to have a great time! MORE INFO TBA

3. Crozet Independence Day Parade and Celebration | July 5th

This year's celebration (including fireworks) will be held at King Family Vineyards. MORE INFO TBA

There is an ongoing campaign to raise money for this year's firework show. https://www.gofundme.com/f/202...

Don't Miss These Other Local Events

Jul 3rd & 5th

Charlottesville Tom Sox Home Games

CHO Airport Field
1400 Melbourne Road

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Jul 4TH

Kiwanis Independence Day 5K

Lakeside Middle School

“A Charlottesville Holiday Tradition since 1983” To Benefit Salvation Army -Camp Rappahannock, Central Little League and Charlottesville Community Bikes. Over $140,000 has been raised for charity over the past 41 years!

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